Pilates lovers: challenge your core with this core strength test

If you’re a Pilates instructor or an avid Pilates practitioner, you most likely think you have a really strong core. We certainly did! So we searched the internet for a “core strength test” to prove our power. What an eye-opener! The test explained below and the video link provided shows you what we found.

Joseph Pilates did not invent this test, nor did we. This three minute test was designed by Brian Mackenzie, a British sports conditioning coach. We have videotaped it so that you don’t have to stare at a clock or a watch the whole time (although watching the second hand slowly make its way around the clock three times does add enhance the enjoyment facor as you can imagine!) Hopefully our cues for proper positioning will help you out as well. If you’re at work and can’t watch the video, the “test” proceeds as follows:

That’s it! If you feel your back starting to arch (which those of you who are slightly anteriorly tilted in the pelvs — like us — may find happens), you must bend your knees and rest for a few seconds before continuing. And for that matter, if you experience any other discomfort, REST! You have plenty of time to work up to the full three minutes.

One final but very important note: WE’RE NOT PERFECT! In fact, given our body types (anteriorly tilted pelvis), this test was extremely challenging, and we could not do the whole thing the first time we tried it. For instance, in the video, I say “keep your shoulders level” and lamentably, mine are not level, though I am trying!

A strong core has been shown to benefit people in all activities from golfers to runners, from new moms to senior citizens. Take your time with this test and remember: core strength is a journey! Enjoy the journey!